In any skin care routine, exfoliation is an essential step that cannot be overlooked. Whether it be chemical or physical, exfoliation should incorporated in to your daily routine to achieve that perfect “glass skin.” Read on to find out what, exactly, does exfoliation do and why it keeps your skin healthy.

1. Unclogs pores

   Essentially, the act of exfoliating is the buffing away of dead skin cells that accumulate on your skin. When you exfoliate, you prevent all that dead skin and surface debris from getting into the pores on your face, which would eventually lead to whiteheads and blackheads.

2. Clears acne

   If you have acne-prone skin, incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine may be just what you need. In addition to unclogging your pores, exfoliating can also help break down bacteria and encourage the production of new, healthy skin cells. However, over-exfoliation can lead to many other problems which might have the opposite effect on your skin. It is best to start out with a gentle chemical exfoliant 2-3 times a week.

3. Boosts radiance

   As we age, the process in which our skin generates new skin cells slows and more dead skin cells pile up on the surface, making the skin look dull and rough. Exfoliation whisks all those old skin cells away to make room for new, glowy, and healthy skin cells to come to the surface.

4. Improves skin hydration

   If your skin feels dry or dehydrated, it’s likely because you don’t have exfoliation in your skincare routine. This is because the layers of old skin cells can build up on the surface, preventing your skin form absorbing the moisturizing products you apply. Exfoliation prevents that by allowing the new cells to come into contact with all the healthy ingredients inside your products.

5. Evens skin tone

   Do you have hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or acne scars? Exfoliation is the answer to your problems. Exfoliation will get rid of the old skin cells on your face, which will minimize discoloration and uneven skin tones.

6. Boosts circulation

   One aspect that most people don’t know about exfoliation is that it stimulates blood flow and circulation, which nourishes your skin. The increased circulation of oxygen-rich blood boosts cellular health, which minimizes the appearance of cellulite, improves skin elasticity and enhance radiance.

7. Stimulates collagen synthesis

   In the long term, regular exfoliation stimulates collagen synthesis, which will keep the skin looking plump, tight, and young. If ou are trying to fight off fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliation is a great step to making sure your skin stay looking young.

8. Allows for better makeup application

   Ever get flakey patches or caceky texture after applying foundation? Exfoliation will fix that for you , as your skin will be nice and smooth with a consistent exfoliation routine.

Are you convinced? If so, here is a list of some of the most highly recommended exfoliants to add to your skincare products.

1. Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

   A long-standing favorite, this exfoliant is a world-wide bestseller that’s known for its impressive ability to combat acne. This is a gentle leave-on salicylic acid exfoliator that unclogs and shrinks pores, reduces wrinkles, and evens out skin tone.

2. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% Exfoliating Serum

   Another viral product, this serum does wonders for the skin and does it on a budget! Retailing for under $10, this serum both exfoliates your skin and contains inflammation-reducing and hydrating ingredients that are suitable for all skin types.

3. L'Oreal Paris Skincare 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum

   This lightweight serum is another budget-friendly option that is hard to go wrong with. Especially for those that want to reduce signs of aging, this product highlights glycolic acid, which focuses on reducing dark spots and wrinkles.

4. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

   Another way to exfoliate beyond just using serums is with peels, particularly this one by Dr. Dennis. Packed in a very convenient and easy to use format, this product comes with two pads: one for exfoliation and one for hydration.

5. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

   Suitable for all skin types, this exfoliant is a best-selling product by Hollywood’s celebrity esthetician, Kate Somerville. This exfoliant contains a mix of lactic acid and salicylic acid, which work to leave your skin glowing and hydrated while also reducing pores and texture.

6. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant - Exfoliator Facial Scrub Powder

   Generally, physical exfoliants may be a bit harsh for many skin types, especially sensitive skin. However, this exfoliant is a great compromise with those who enjoy physical exfoliation. This product comes in a powder formula, giving the sensation of a physical exfoliant without being too harsh on the skin.

7. Summer Fridays Soft Reset AHA Exfoliating Solution

   For those with oily skin, this is the product for you. Summer Fridays created has created a lightweight, chemical exfoliant featuring lactic acid, niacinimide, and glycolic acid for anyone struggling with acne or random breakouts in general.

8. Reflekt 1 - Daily Exfoliating Face Wash

   Adding exfoliation doesn’t mean you need a whole new step though. If you’re someone who wants a quick and easy way to exfoliate, Reflekt’s Daily Exfoliating Face Wash gets the job done just as well.

9. Kinship Self Smooth 10% Glycolic Resurfacing Serum

   This overnight serum won Best Face Exfoliator from Cosmopolitan Clean Beauty Award 2023 for good reason. The concoction of glycolic acid, white oat extract, and strawberry extract works wonders to shrink pores and reduce skin texture.

10. Biossance Squalane + Glycolic Renewal Mask

    This final exfoliant comes in the form of a mask and is a great choice for those with mature skin. For those looking to reduce fine lines, discoloration, and enlarged pores with practically instant results, this is the mask for you.

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